Indian Prime Minister holds productive meeting with President Anura Kumara Disanayaka, marking first State visit since September 2024.
In a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties, Indian Prime Minister had a productive meeting with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo on April 05, 2025. The talks marked the first State visit by an Indian leader since President Disanayaka took office in September 2024.
The two leaders held detailed discussions in a restricted and delegation level format, focusing on deepening special and close bilateral ties rooted in shared history and strong people-to-people linkages. They reviewed cooperation in areas such as connectivity, development cooperation, economic ties, defence relations, reconciliation, and fishermen issues.
Prime Minister reiterated India's importance in its Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, while conveying the country's continued commitment to assist Sri Lanka's economic recovery and stabilization. The Prime Minister also announced support for several projects, including 5000 solar rooftop units installed at religious places across Sri Lanka and a temperature-controlled warehousing facility at Dambulla.
The two leaders virtually inaugurated these projects, as well as participated in the ground-breaking ceremony for the launch of the 120 MW Sampur Solar power project. They also witnessed the exchange of seven Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in fields such as energy, digitization, defence, health, and multi-sectoral assistance in the Eastern Province.
Prime Minister announced support for the development of several key projects, including the Thirukoneswaram temple in Trincomalee, the Sacred City project in Anuradhapura, and the Sita Eliya temple complex in Nuwara Eliya. The Prime Minister also announced a comprehensive package for training an additional 700 Sri Lankan citizens annually, as well as the conclusion of Bilateral Amendatory Agreements on Debt Restructuring.
In a symbolic gesture, the Prime Minister announced that Holy Relics of Lord Buddha from Gujarat would be traveling to Sri Lanka for the International Vesak Day celebrations. This move is in keeping with the shared Buddhist heritage of the two countries.
The visit by Indian Prime Minister marks an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka, and underscores the country's commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's economic recovery and stabilization.